Allen Martin

Allen Lynn Martin, 87, passed away on Monday, April 8, 2019 in Commerce, Texas.  He was born on March 25, 1932.  A visitation will take place on Thursday, April 11, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Commerce.  The funeral will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Reverend Sam Caldwell officiating.  Burial will follow at Shiloh Cemetery in Klondike, Texas.

Allen was born at home in the South Sulphur Community to Vivian Lynn Nichol Martin and James Allen Martin.  He grew up on the family farm which was established in 1900 by his grandfather.  The farm is still in operation by a fourth generation Martin.  In 1944, Allen joined the Methodist Church at Wesley Chapel.  He has been a long-time member of First United Methodist Church in Commerce.  He attended Commerce Schools and continued his education while attending East Texas State College, (now Texas A&M Commerce).  He graduated in 1954 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture.  Upon graduating he received his 2nd Lt. Commission into the United States Air Force.  On June 16 of that same year, Allen married Betty Ann Robnett.  After spending five years in the Air Force, he returned to the family farm. 

In the early 1960s, along with other community leaders, Allen was instrumental in forming and establishing the North Hunt County Water District.  In 1987, he was elected Hunt County Commissioner for Precinct 4.  He held that office until he retired in 2002.  Over the years, he served on numerous committees and boards.  Allen was also a member of Commerce Masonic Lodge, where he was recently awarded his 65th year pin.  He was a 32nd degree Mason and a Shriner.  Allen was often heard to say he never had a job he didn’t like.  He enjoyed life and he loved his family. 

Allen is survived by his wife of 65 years, Betty; daughters, Lynda Ann Martin and husband, Robin Foote of Gainesville, Susan Lee Martin of Greenville; son, Andy Martin and wife, Jenny of South Sulphur; grandchildren, Ainsley Hoover and husband, Jake, Ian Bruton, Amelia Martin and Sarah Martin; great grandson Calvin Hoover and his brother, Jimmy Martin and wife, Marie of Austin.

Allen was preceded in death by his parents, James and Vivian Martin.

Serving as pallbearers for Allen will be Eric Williams, Jon Anderson, Pilar Larios, Mike Barker, David Huffman and Marcus Moore.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church of Commerce.

The services for Allen Martin have been entrusted to Commerce Funeral Home in Commerce.

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